Caribbean Export introduced the Productivity Network (ProNET) programme in 2012, in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). Over the years CE has worked with dozens of National Business Support Organisations across the CARIFORUM region to deliver this training to hundreds of SMEs.
ProNET is a practical skills development programme for SMEs seeking to improve their competitiveness. The programme is based on the Experiential Learning Methodology: case study based and driven by practical examples and assignments. It is action-oriented by using techniques such as plenary group work and structured learning exercises, open-ended discussion, brainstorming sessions, and fieldwork. The Experiential Learning Methodology is built on the premise that participants share their current experience by means of exercises, initially in small groups, and thereafter with the entire group with guidance from the facilitators.
In the second quarter of 2022, the Agency undertook a targeted survey of the three main groups of beneficiaries (SMEs, ProNET trainers, National Business Support Organizations) to review the usefulness of the training over the years as well as its continued relevance and attendant course content 10 years on. The responses indicated that there is a need for training for SMEs in the region, however, there are some notable areas for improvement.
The survey revealed staple ProNET courses such as Export Marketing and Cost and Financial Management as highly demanded courses, however, it recognized the necessity of updating to improve SME competitiveness in an evolving trading environment. New areas of training in Innovation and Business Model Development, E-commerce and Technology, Cybersecurity, Business Recovery and Continuity were among the new training courses identified. The necessity of a practical component of the programme was also recognized.
An update of ProNET’s training programme will provide regional SMEs with the necessary tools to operate effectively and competitively in a transitioning global economy.
Overall Objective
The overall objective of the Consultancy is to increase the capacity of private sector firms in CARIFORUM countries through updating Caribbean Export’s ProNET training programme.
Commencement date and period of implementation of tasks
This consultancy is expected to commence on 3rd August 2022 for a 4-month period ending 30th November 2022.
Required Documentation
• Technical proposal/concept design for delivery of services requested
• Financial proposal to meet scope of works
• Applicant Declaration form in paragraph 14
Required documentation should be submitted to Ms. Natasha Edwin-Walcott, Senior Advisor – Competitiveness and Export Promotion at nwalcott@carib-export.com with a copy to Dr. Damie Sinanan, Manager, Competitiveness and Export Promotion at dsinanan@carib-export.com no later than 4:00 pm AST on 24th July 2022.
